University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill

What you'll study

This doctoral programme emphasises original research in oral biology and related areas. Students pursue an individualized programme of study that typically includes advanced coursework, laboratory rotations, seminar participation and a sustained dissertation project under the supervision of a faculty mentor in the Adams School of Dentistry and affiliated research units.

• Core research areas: molecular and cellular biology of the oral cavity, craniofacial development, oral microbiology and immunology, periodontology, cariology and preventive sciences, biomaterials and tissue engineering, oral oncology and pathology, population oral health and health services research.
• Typical coursework: research design and methods, advanced molecular techniques, oral and craniofacial biology, biomaterials and regenerative medicine, biostatistics for biomedical research, ethics and responsible conduct of research, grant writing and scientific communication.
• Training components: laboratory-based research leading to a doctoral dissertation; regular participation in research seminars and journal clubs; teaching or mentoring experience; comprehensive/qualifying examinations; preparation and defence of the dissertation.
• Interdisciplinary opportunities: students frequently collaborate with faculty across UNC–Chapel Hill units such as the School of Medicine, the Gillings School of Global Public Health, the Eshelman School of Pharmacy and campus research centres, enabling translational and population-level projects.

Entry requirements

Applicants are expected to demonstrate a strong academic background and preparedness for independent research. Typical entry qualifications include:

• Academic credential: a dental professional degree (DDS/DMD) or a relevant master's degree or bachelor’s degree in a biomedical science with substantial research experience. Exceptional applicants from related disciplines may be considered.
• Research experience: documented laboratory or clinical research experience, including publications, presentations or substantial project work, is highly desirable.
• Application materials: academic transcripts, a curriculum vitae, a statement of research interests outlining proposed research direction, and letters of recommendation from academic or research supervisors.
• English language: applicants whose first language is not English must satisfy the university's English proficiency requirements.
• Other considerations: admission decisions consider the fit between the applicant’s research interests and available faculty mentors, funding prospects, and the applicant’s potential for scholarship and teaching. Specific requirements and any standardised test policies are provided by the programme and the Graduate School.

Career prospects

Graduates of the PhD in Dentistry pursue a broad range of careers at the interface of research, education and clinical practice. Common paths include:

• Academic positions as tenure-track faculty or research faculty in dental schools and universities, combining teaching, clinical supervision and research.
• Research scientist roles in industry and biotechnology companies focused on dental materials, therapeutics, diagnostics and oral health technologies.
• Clinical research and translational science positions in academic medical centres and specialised research institutes, often in collaboration with medicine, engineering and public health.
• Leadership roles in governmental and non-governmental organisations concerned with oral health policy, epidemiology and public health programmes.
• Consultancy and entrepreneurial opportunities arising from technology development, intellectual property and start-up ventures linked to oral health innovations.

Why study at University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill

UNC–Chapel Hill’s Adams School of Dentistry is embedded in a major research university with extensive interdisciplinary resources. The school provides access to modern laboratories, clinical research facilities and collaborative centres across the campus, allowing doctoral students to pursue bench-to-bedside and population-level projects.

Students benefit from mentorship by faculty who are active in basic, translational and population oral health research, structured doctoral training, and opportunities for teaching and professional development. The university’s strong ties with clinical partners and research networks in the region support funding opportunities, clinical trials and community-engaged research. Together, these features create an environment suited to developing independent investigators prepared for leadership in dental research, education and innovation.